The ultimate goal of a workers' compensation adjuster when working with the treating physician is to achieve what?

The ultimate goal of a workers' compensation adjuster when collaborating with the treating physician is to achieve Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI refers to the point at which an injured employee's condition has stabilized, and further medical treatment is unlikely to lead to significant improvement.

Reaching MMI is essential as it allows for a clear assessment of the employee's ongoing medical needs and potential disability. Once a patient reaches MMI, decisions can be made regarding their claim, including whether they can return to work, what kind of rehabilitation may be necessary, and what compensation should be provided. It signifies that the medical team has done all they can to treat the injury and that the focus can shift to rehabilitation or treatment for any remaining conditions, rather than continuing potentially unnecessary medical interventions.

While achieving maximum coverage for medical bills or ensuring a complete recovery in the shortest time may seem beneficial, these are secondary goals that rely on the identification of MMI. Similarly, a full return to work immediately may not be realistic or safe depending on the individual's condition. Thus, focusing on MMI provides a structured and medically sound pathway for the adjuster and the treating physician to follow in managing a workers' compensation case.